Big on the pig … and the cow, chicken and turkey

Sample ribs from five states and finish off the meal with some deep-fried lemonade.

Yes, such an opportunity exists … for three days, no less. The Carolina Mountain Ribfest returns for its seventh year at the WNC Ag Center Fairgrounds from Friday, July 12, through Sunday, July 14.

The event brings together rib wranglers from North Carolina, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina. Over the course of the festival, they compete for Silver Pig Awards (based on diner votes). They also offer pulled pork, chicken, brisket and turkey legs.

Pure Prairie League and The Swayback Sisters, among others, play the festival, and a classic car show and a karaoke contest also grace the bill.

The shindig runs 4 to 11 p.m. on July 12, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 13, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 14. Tickets cost $7 (cash only) at the gate. Kids 12 and under get in free with an adult. For more information, visit wcpshows.com/ribfest.html.